JNIM denies reports of its second-in-command’s death in central Mali strike

The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) has firmly denied recent claims about the death of Sidna Ag Hita, a senior leader close to Iyad Ag Gali and the organization’s second-in-command. These unverified reports emerged shortly after the Africa Legion claimed he was targeted in an airstrike near Diabali, in central Mali.

Reliable sources within the armed group confirmed to local reporters that Ag Hita remains alive and in good health. They emphasized that no credible evidence supports the death claims, adding that JNIM has not issued any statement confirming his injury or demise.

The Africa Corps, which carried out the operation, stated in a formal announcement that an airstrike and rocket fire struck a rural camp belonging to the armed group in the early hours of May 27. According to their intelligence at the time, Ag Hita was reportedly present at the targeted site.